Home Remedies that Work for Pets

Tuesday

Dec 11, 2012 at 12:01 AMMar 18, 2015 at 5:19 PM

Simple treatments for common ailments

Many dog and cat owners like to use time-tested home remedies for minor pet ailments and conditions. Here are a few popular home remedies for pets. Be sure to consult a veterinarian before treating your pet with these or any home remedies. Only a professional veterinarian can give you guidance on safe, effective treatments for your pets specific condition.

Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar will not kill fleas on your pets coat, but it may make them jump away, allowing you to comb the little pests out. Simply mix two parts apple cider vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle. Saturate the coat and comb the fleas out. This is best done outdoors.

Baking soda. Baking soda is a great all-purpose odor remover and does not contain the harsh chemicals you may find in commercial air fresheners. Sprinkle fresh baking soda over litter in the cats litter box every other day to keep odors at bay. A baking soda paste can also help to eliminate cat urine odors from carpet.

Butter. Give your kitty about one-eighth teaspoon of butter once a week to help reduce the buildup of hairballs. In addition, limit snacks and encourage active play, as exercise can also help reduce the occurrence of hairballs.

Cedar. Pet bedding filled with cedar chips can repel fleas. Place cedar chips in outdoor spaces where your pet plays to help ward off fleas as well.

Eucalyptus. Rub essential oil of eucalyptus onto your pets collar or leash to repel fleas and ticks. Tea tree oil will work as well. Be sure that your pet can't chew on the collar and ingest the oil.

Lemon juice. A lemon juice spray can work as a flea repellent. Boil six lemons, cut in half, in about a quart of water. Let the lemons steep for at least two hours. Strain the solution and transfer to a clean spray bottle. Spray your pets coat. Do not spray near the face, especially the eyes.

Pureed pumpkin. A spoonful or two of canned pureed pumpkin or pureed fresh pumpkin may help relieve occasional diarrhea or constipation in dogs and cats. The pumpkin is rich in fiber, which can help improve digestive problems. Be sure to use pureed pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. If your pet's diarrhea last more than 24 hours, consult a vet.

Salt water wash. Wash the inside walls and floor of your dogs doghouse with salt water once a week to repel fleas and ticks.

Tomato juice. A tomato juice bath is a tried and true method of deodorizing a pet that has had an unfortunate encounter with a skunk. It may take a few baths in tomato juice to remove the stench.

This article originally appeared as Home Remedies that Work for Pets on American Profile